Droplets in a Stream (DIAS), a local Brisbane based Charity, works to help provide vulnerable children in Uganda and Kenya with education and healthcare needs.
Working in partnership with Kyampisi Childcare Ministries (KCM), DIAS had organised in November to bring Benson, a young Urgandan boy, to Brisbane for life-changing surgery, along with Peter Michael, Director – KCM, to accompany and care for Benson.
An error in issuing a visa for Mr Michael meant that he would be unable to bring Benson to Brisbane to complete the surgery, unless it could be rectified in the space of just over one day.
After Mr Callanan contacted the Office of the State Member for Moggill, Dr Christian Rowan MP worked with Jane Prentice MP, Federal Member for Ryan, to help secure the correct visa for Mr Michael.
Thanks to those efforts, Mr Michael was able to bring young Benson to Brisbane where he received vital surgery, helping turn the young boy’s life around.
On Wednesday 5 December 2018, Mr Callanan and Mr Michael visited Dr Rowan to personally say thank you, and to update him on the progress and recovery of Benson.
“Without vital surgery, Benson would never have recovered from his severe injury,” Mr Callanan said.
“It was so amazing to see the change from a shy and embarrassed kid to a happy and energetic boy.
“I really want to thank Dr Rowan, Mrs Prentice, and their offices, for all the assistance they’ve provided not just this year but in previous years.
“We’re extremely grateful for the support and work they’ve done and continue to do for us.” Mr Callanan said.
Dr Rowan said he was delighted to help achieve such a positive outcome for Droplets in a Stream.
“This is a great example of what can be achieved when local representatives work together, and again I want to pass on my sincere thanks to Jane and her office for all their assistance”.
Mr Callanan said in addition to the support from the State Member for Moggill and Federal Member for Ryan, Benson’s surgery could not have happened without the generosity of local airlines and Mater Urologist, Dr David Winkle.
“There simply aren’t facilities and surgeons that could undertake these complex operations in his home country, which is why we needed to bring Benson here.
“South African Airways and Virgin Australia have been extremely generous in providing free flights and Dr Winkle and the Hospital Administration at the Mater have provided their services free of charge.
“We are so grateful to them!” said Mr Callanan
